Take a hike on the seafloor of an ancient ocean at Soldier’s Delight Natural Area. Known as “The Great Maryland Barrens” to early pioneers, this area encompasses 1,900 acres and is the largest remaining serpentine ecosystem in the eastern United States. It is home to 39 rare, threatened, or endangered plant species, insects, rocks, and minerals.
These barrens are characterized by having shallow soil composed of serpentinite, an oceanic rock created when igneous rocks like peridotite from deep within the Earth’s mantle are metamorphosed under sea pressure. This soil type is susceptible to erosion and contains very high levels of magnesium and very low levels of essential nutrients. The flora and fauna of serpentine barrens have adapted to these harsh growing conditions. Colorful asters, prairie grasses, dragonflies, and butterflies may be seen in the oak savannas and grasslands of Soldiers Delight, depending on the season. The remaining barrens cover less than 5% of their original area and are threatened by invading pines and brambles.
We’ll hike about 1.5 miles to learn about these special plants and insects in this area, as well as how these areas are managed and why they are disappearing. If the group wishes to hike further, that may be possible. The trail and surrounding areas are rocky in places.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring your hiking pole if you would like it.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and a camera with accessories.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
Our trip leader is Edwin Guevara, a Natural Resources Biologist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. As an Education and Outreach Specialist, Edwin travels throughout all of Maryland to teach, lead outreach events, host interpretive hikes, and help field biologists with their work. Edwin earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the Universidad de Puerto Rico en Humacao. He spent three years working in outdoor education in New England and then taught science in the classroom in Maryland before coming to the DNR. He is also a certified Master Naturalist and wildlands firefighter and enjoys nature photography.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:- NHSM Member: $25
- Non Members: $30